Top 5 Cybersecurity Jobs 2024
Security Analyst
Role: Monitors and protects an organization's networks, systems, and data from threats.
Pay: Median $120,360
Key Responsibilities:
Analyzing security systems for vulnerabilities.
Responding to security breaches.
Implementing security measures.
Skills Needed: Threat analysis, incident response, and knowledge of SIEM tools.
Pathway:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field.
Optional: Master’s degree in Cybersecurity or Information Assurance.
Certifications:
Entry-level: CompTIA Security+, GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
Advanced: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Skills:
Security monitoring and incident response
Familiarity with SIEM tools like Splunk or QRadar
Basic programming (Python, Bash)
Experience:
Start in IT roles such as helpdesk, system administrator, or network technician.
Transition into cybersecurity through internships or junior security analyst roles.
Network Security Analyst
Role: Ensures the security and integrity of a company's network infrastructure.
Pay: Median $120,360
Key Responsibilities:
Monitoring network traffic for unusual activity.
Implementing firewalls and intrusion prevention systems.
Managing access control.
Skills Needed: Network protocols, firewalls, and penetration testing.
Pathway:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, or Computer Science.
Certifications:
Entry-level: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+
Advanced: Cisco Certified CyberOps Professional, GIAC Certified Perimeter Protection Analyst (GPPA)
Skills:
Deep understanding of networking (TCP/IP, DNS, VLANs)
Hands-on with firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)
Packet analysis with tools like Wireshark
Experience:
Start in networking roles (e.g., network administrator or engineer).
Gain hands-on experience with security tools and transition to network security roles.
Digital Forensic Examiner
Role: Investigates cybercrimes by collecting and analyzing digital evidence.
Pay: Median $64,940 Median (2023)
Key Responsibilities:
Recovering and preserving data from devices.
Investigating cyber incidents.
Collaborating with law enforcement.
Skills Needed: Data recovery, forensic tools, and legal knowledge.
Pathway:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Digital Forensics, Cybersecurity, or Criminal Justice.
Optional: Master's degree in Digital Forensics or Cybercrime Investigation.
Certifications:
EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE)
GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)
Skills:
Proficiency with forensic tools (e.g., FTK, EnCase, Autopsy)
Understanding of file systems, data recovery, and chain of custody
Knowledge of legal procedures related to evidence
Experience:
Start as an IT technician or junior forensic analyst.
Gain hands-on forensic experience through internships or working with law enforcement.
Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
Role: Simulates cyberattacks to identify and fix vulnerabilities.
Pay: Median $120,360
Key Responsibilities:
Conducting penetration tests.
Reporting security weaknesses.
Advising on mitigation strategies.
Skills Needed: Exploitation techniques, scripting, and vulnerability assessments.
Pathway:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field.
Optional: Advanced certifications can sometimes substitute for formal education.
Certifications:
Entry-level: CompTIA Pentest+, CEH
Advanced: Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
Skills:
Proficiency in ethical hacking tools (e.g., Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap)
Coding/scripting knowledge (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
Deep understanding of vulnerability assessment and exploitation techniques
Experience:
Start in IT or junior cybersecurity roles (e.g., security analyst).
Gain experience with vulnerability assessments and testing tools.
Security Architect (Network)
Role: Designs and implements robust security systems for organizations.
Pay: Median $129,840 [BLS]
Key Responsibilities:
Developing security policies and procedures.
Designing secure IT infrastructures.
Staying ahead of emerging threats.
Pathway:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or Information Systems.
Optional: Master’s degree in Information Security or IT Management.
Certifications:
CISSP (with focus on architecture)
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework)
Skills:
Proficiency in designing security policies and procedures
Strong knowledge of enterprise architecture and threat modeling
Leadership and project management skills
Experience:
Work as a security analyst or network security professional.
Gain expertise in designing security systems and enterprise-level solutions.
Progress to a senior architect role through years of hands-on experience.
When it comes to the experience needed for each of these careers, it is not all or nothing. With a combination of Certifications and Experience in a similar field you could get the same job as someone with a Bachelors degree and a certificate just as easily as them but you’ll eventually want to complete a bachelors and/or masters which can increase your yearly earnings by around $19,000.
